A mental health expert has raised concerns of growing economic challenges as a major factor contributing to mental health disorders in the country.
As Nigeria marks World Mental Health Day, Sunday Amosu, Head of Research and Training at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta, highlighted the significant stress caused by Nigeria’s economic struggles.
Speaking during an outreach event organized by the Olutunu Health and Human Development Initiative at Olomore Market in Abeokuta, he said, “the economic challenge is real, and it’s a major cause of mental illness,” Amosu stated during the event held ahead of the global observance.
He emphasized the need for individuals to live within their means to reduce mental stress, adding, “There’s no need to compare yourself with others; if you can’t afford private school for your children, enrol them in government schools. This is one way to reduce mental stress.”
The outreach event, part of a series of activities in celebration of World Mental Health Day, focused on the theme, “Prioritising Mental Health in the Workplace.” Amosu explained that poor working conditions and economic stress have a direct impact on mental health and workplace productivity.
“There’s a strong relationship between work and health. Poor working conditions can lead to mental health problems, and in turn, mental health issues affect productivity. That’s why this year’s theme is so important,” he added.
Amosu urged employers to be more sensitive to the mental health needs of their staff, emphasizing the importance of observing changes in employee behavior, especially signs of stress or sleep disturbances.
“If you see a subordinate struggling, even if they don’t say anything, observe their behavior. Are they sleeping well? Are they dealing with stress? As a boss, are you the cause of their stress?” he asked, warning that denying employees leave or support could exacerbate mental health problems.
He also noted that sleep disturbances are often an early indicator of mental health issues, advising Nigerians to seek help if they experience difficulty sleeping.
“Adults need about six to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep. If someone struggles to fall back asleep after waking, it’s a sign that something may be wrong,” Amosu said.
Addressing harmful behaviors, he warned against the use of hard drugs and urged people to be mindful of their leisure activities and social circles, as these can impact mental well-being.
Mrs. Salako Olawunmi-Larry, Assistant Director at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the need to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.
“We are here through the platform of the Olutunu Health and Human Development Initiative, an NGO focused on advocacy. Our target is to work on prevention, especially in the area of mental health,” she explained.
She lamented that mental health patients often face neglect, even from family members, due to the stigma surrounding mental illness. “When it comes to mental health, family members are reluctant to take responsibility,” Salako said, citing instances where relatives refused to collect the bodies of deceased mental health patients. She stressed that mental illnesses are treatable, and those affected should not be abandoned.
As part of their ongoing campaign, the Olutunu Health and Human Development Initiative is working to raise awareness, promote mental health education, and support homeless individuals living with mental illness.
Mrs. Salako called for public financial support to expand the NGO’s work, stating, “While the government has its responsibilities, as an NGO, we rely on financial support from the public to reach as many people as possible.”
The outreach at Olomore Market forms part of the broader efforts to promote mental health awareness, tackle stigma, and offer help to those in need.
